some substance behind the SPL fixing allegations?

A gambler with close social ties to Premier League and England footballers is among those under investigation for involvement in an alleged ‘spot-fixing’ betting sting.

The Gambling Commission and the Scottish FA have been passed details of multiple ‘irregular’ bets and attempted bets, many of them allegedly emanating from Merseyside, on a red card being shown during the game between Motherwell and Hearts in the Scottish Premier League earlier this month. Several betting firms have offered evidence.

Motherwell’s Liverpool-born midfielder, Steve Jennings, who was sent off during the game for swearing at the referee, has denied any involvement in improper betting.

The investigation has been described to me by some involved in the ‘integrity process’ as ‘a test of how seriously the Commission and sporting bodies want to take these issues’.

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New figures from the Gambling Commission show a surge in reports of ‘irregular’ betting across British sport since April.

More than 50 cases have been referred in eight months, with football cases prominent. Most are understood to be ‘low level’, namely League Two or non-League.

The authorities have evidence to suggest that at least two matches were fixed: Accrington v Bury in League Two on May 3, 2008, and Grays Athletic v Forest Green Rovers in the Conference on April 26, 2009.

No surprise really, it's the same method fixers use in other sports - get friendly with players in an informal setting, gradually build a relationship and then make improper suggestions...

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About Me

Former Head of Education at Betfair, now in the outside world stirring up controversy, keeping punters informed and doing a bit of consulting and writing. Proud Australian who has been 'visiting' London for a few too many years now. Available for betting editorial, previews and industry comment. Contact me at scottf at journalist.com.Now regularly covering major race meetings and sporting events via guest blogger previews. Keen to have a go? Drop me a line...